The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPC Ltd, has taken a major leap in indigenous technology development with the commissioning of 3D printing infrastructure and a Digital Fabrication Laboratory, FabLab, MakerSpace at its Research, Technology and Innovation Division.
The initiatives, unveiled by the Executive Vice President, Business Services, Mrs. Sophia Mbakwe, are expected to strengthen Nigeria’s local manufacturing capacity, reduce reliance on imported components, and support cost-effective operations across the country’s energy value chain.
Speaking at the commissioning, Mbakwe described the projects as “a significant milestone in NNPC’s determination to lead homegrown technological innovation in the energy sector.”
“We are deliberately investing in research and advanced manufacturing because the future of Nigeria’s energy security will be driven by technology,” she said.
“With these facilities, we are empowering our engineers and innovators to develop solutions locally, shorten procurement cycles, and reduce costs across our operations.”
Mbakwe noted that the projects also demonstrate NNPC’s readiness to support Nigeria’s industrialisation ambitions by enabling local talent to participate in advanced manufacturing.
“Our goal is to enable Nigerian researchers, engineers and young innovators to build, fabricate and problem-solve within our borders. This is how we strengthen local content and safeguard the future of our energy industry.”
Also speaking, the company’s Chief Innovation Officer, Mr. Rasheed Ojulari, said the development of 3D printing capabilities and the establishment of the FabLab were part of NNPC Ltd’s broader strategy to build an innovation-driven organisation capable of competing globally.
“3D printing will allow us to rapidly prototype and produce components that previously had to be imported,” Ojulari said.
“The FabLab will serve as a creative hub where ideas can be transformed into functional tools, devices, and prototypes that support our operational efficiency.”
He added that the company was committed to fostering a culture of innovation that aligns with the changing dynamics of the global energy industry.
“As the world transitions to new energy systems, technology will play a central role. NNPC is positioning itself not just to adapt, but to lead in this new landscape,” he stated.
The commissioning further reinforces NNPC Ltd’s corporate agenda tagged #EnergyForToday, #EnergyForTomorrow, which prioritises operational excellence, technology-driven processes, and sustainable energy development.
